Germany Passport & Visa Photo Size and Requirements
A German biometric passport or visa photo must be 35x45mm, front-facing, with a plain light-colored background and strict, ICAO-style positioning of the head and eyes.
This tool crops your photo to exactly 35x45mm and removes the background automatically to match the German biometric photo sample sheet.
| Photo size | 35 × 45 mm (1.4" × 1.8") |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 300 DPI (413 × 531 px) |
| Max file size | 150 KB |
| Format | JPG |
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Can you use AI background removal for this photo?
We have not found a published rule specifically banning background removal or other AI editing for this document as of this writing - but policies are changing across the industry, and getting it wrong can mean a rejected application. Always check the official source below for the current rule before using background removal, and when in doubt, use only cropping and resizing.
General photo rules
These apply broadly, but always confirm the specifics for this document on the official source below.
- Neutral facial expression, mouth closed, both eyes open
- Face the camera directly, with no head tilt
- No hats or head coverings, except for religious or medical reasons - your full face must still be visible
- A recent photo, typically taken within the last 6 months
- A plain, evenly lit background with no shadows, patterns, or other people or objects
- Glasses are discouraged or restricted by a growing number of countries due to glare - check the official source below for this document specifically
How to take this photo at home
- Stand about 3-6 feet in front of a plain, light-colored wall with no shadow falling behind you.
- Use even, natural light facing you - a window works well. Avoid harsh overhead light, backlighting, or a direct flash, which all cast shadows.
- Hold the camera at eye level, at arm’s length or propped on a stand, and look straight into it.
- Keep a neutral expression, mouth closed, both eyes open, and remove hats or sunglasses.
- Take a few shots, then upload the sharpest one here - cropping to the exact size, and background removal if you use it, are handled automatically.
Many governments accept a digital photo upload for online applications as well as a printed photo for in-person or mail applications - check the official source below for which your application needs. This tool exports both a single photo file and a 4x6 print sheet, so either way you're covered.
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Frequently asked questions
What size is a German passport photo?
35mm wide by 45mm tall, per the German Missions Abroad biometric photo sample sheet.
What background color is required?
A plain, light, uniform background (typically light grey) with no shadows.
How strict is the head positioning?
German biometric photos follow ICAO-style rules with specific tolerances for head height and centering - use this tool's guide lines to line up your face precisely.
How recent must the photo be?
It should be a recent photo, typically within the last 6 months.
Are glasses allowed?
Only without glare or tinted lenses, and frames must not cover the eyes - confirm current rules on the official PDF above.
Source: German Missions Abroad. Requirements change over time - always confirm the current specification before submitting.